American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO) Practice Exam 2025 – The Complete All-in-One Guide to Exam Success

Dilation in an eye examination primarily serves to enhance the clinician's ability to visualize the interior structures of the eye, such as the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. By dilating the pupil, the opening through which light enters the eye becomes larger, allowing for not only more light to enter but also a more comprehensive view of the eye's interior. This improved visibility is critical for diagnosing various eye conditions, detecting diseases such as diabetic retinopathy or glaucoma, and monitoring the health of the retina and other critical structures.

Testing for color vision, temporarily correcting vision, or measuring intraocular pressure do not rely on the dilation of the pupil. While those activities are essential components of a comprehensive eye exam, they are performed for different purposes and do not utilize dilation to achieve their goals. Dilation remains a specific maneuver aimed at improving the detailed observation of the eye's internal anatomy.